The group has planned a "Day in Gray," the signature color of the volunteer group, to honor 18-year-old Joseph Massenburg.

Americorps alumni Megan Gold recalled her time as volunteer.

"It's a really unique experience. You live and work with the same 10 people for a year," Gold said.

Gold said service often means heading into some of the least desirable areas.

"I think you just know what you are getting in to," Gold said. "Generally, where you serve tends to be tougher areas."

Massenburg, who joined AmeriCorps to give back to the community, had not been in town a month when he was gunned down near the intersection of Eagle and Birch streets in the West Carrollton neighborhood shortly before 11 p.m. Monday.

Police said Massenburg was walking down the street talking on his cell phone when he was shot. When officers arrived, they found his body lying in the street near the drain with multiple gunshot wounds.

He died at the hospital.

As news of Massenburg's death spread, other volunteer groups expressed sympathy and concern.

"(We're) heartbroken. How can you not be devastated to hear that someone who was giving their life to service literally gave his life in service," said William Stoudt, head of Youth Rebuilding New Orleans.

The Youth Rebuilding New Orleans brings more than 10,000 volunteers to New Orleans each year, many of them from AmeriCorps.

Stoudt said many of the volunteers have the same concerns.

"Is the neighborhood they are going to be working in, is it a safe neighborhood? And the answer is not always 'yes,'" he said.

Stoudt said he hopes the tragedy will not stop others from volunteering in New Orleans.

"Don't let one isolated incident affect what could be one of the most memorable experiences of your life," Stoudt said.